I’ve done this twice now and loved it both times. I have been quite lucky in that both times in my time slot, there have been very few other people, the 1st time there was 4 people in total, and the 2nd only myself and one other! This obviously gives you more time for interacting with the penguins, so I cannot comment what it would be like with a full group.

Ski Duabi is the only place in the world offering this kind of experience, so if you like animals it is a must! It is also very well priced, so should be affordable for most. In the price you get a free pair of gloves, and use of boots, top and trousers (much needed in the -4c temp!). You go through into a little hut and watch a video explaining about how Ski Dubai is helping with Penguin conservation and what not to do when you meet the penguins.
You then go through and meet the 1st lot of penguins, Gentoo Penguins, who are amazing! They are like excited little children, running around the place and jumping on your lap. You get to feed them, and the trainer shows you some of the games they play with them to keep them stimulated. The trainers all seem to have very close relationships with their penguins, and were really great with explaining everything. The Penguins all have great names and differing personalities, Sneezy being my favorite.
You then move into a 2nd enclosure and meet 2 King Penguins. They are much more relaxed and passive. You can get to touch them more and even give them a hug. To get this close to such amazing animals really is a privilege.

Would definitely recommend it to anyone who's travelling to Dubai as its a 'one in a lifetime experience' to meet, touch and take photos with Emperor Penguins. The group size is also kept small to about 10-15 people. I'd book in advance as can be frustrating when you arrive at 1 pm and the next available slot is at 8 pm. It's a wonderful experience inside, the temperature is cold but wearing the suits they provide you keeps it moderate. The penguins are small and friendly. They show many penguins but you only get to meet 4. Photos turn out to be nice too but get prepared to pay an extra dhr 100 of you want them! :)

My wife and daughter did the penguin visit at Ski Dubai on a family break and they absolutely loved it.

As with most things in Dubai, it was well organised and they got a decent amount of time with the selected penguins. In their words it was truly a great experience and one of the things to tick off your life-time desires wish-list.

Go do it..!!